Charleston is one of America’s most underrated family vacation destinations. From aquariums to beautiful beaches, Charleston has plenty to do with kids.
Charleston, South Carolina consistently ranks among the top cities in the world. best romantic destinations in the United States. With trees covered in Spanish moss, cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriage rides, Charleston is perfect for a romantic getaway. Charleston isn’t just for couples, though. The city’s southern charm also appeals to families.
15 Things to Do with Kids in Charleston, South Carolina
From museums to parks to beaches, our 15 things to do for kids in Charleston, South Carolina are the perfect start to exploring this fun city.
1. Lowcountry Children’s Museum
If your kids need a place to play like kids, take them to the Lowcountry Children’s Museum. The museum has eight interactive attractions, including an art room, a pirate ship, gardens and a medieval castle. The Lowcountry Children’s Museum will keep kids entertained for hours.
2. Visit the fort
A great way for kids to learn about Charleston’s history is to tour Fort Muultrie and Fort Sumter. Fort Sumter, on an island in Charleston Harbor, was the site of the first bombardment of the Civil War. Kids will love taking the boat to the island and exploring the historic site complete with cannons. Fort Moultrie on Sullivans Island was built during the Revolutionary War and was active until World War II.
3. South Carolina Aquarium
The South Carolina Aquarium is home to over 10,000 animals and plants. The South Carolina Aquarium is home to North America’s deepest aquarium, the Great Ocean Tank, which holds 385,000 US gallons of water. In the touch tank, you can touch marine life such as horseshoe crabs and rays. You can also visit the Zucker Family Turtle Recovery Hospital, which rehabilitates sick and injured sea turtles.
4. Ride a carriage
One of Charleston’s signature activities is a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city. You might think that horse-drawn carriage rides are only for romantic couples. honeymoon. However, Charleston has plenty of family-friendly horse-drawn carriage tours. Horse-drawn carriage tours are a fun way for families to explore the city’s historic sites and attractions.
5. Patriots Point
USS headquarters at Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum Yorktown aircraft carrier. See the US Navy ships that earned her 16 battle stars for her service in World War II and Vietnam.The USS is also on display at the museum Laffey, the most heavily decorated of any WII-era U.S. destroyer. You can also enjoy a collection of historical military aircraft and experience Vietnam.
6. Charleston Museum
Founded in 1773, the Charleston Museum is one of the oldest museums in the country. The Kids Story exhibit is designed for children with hands-on and interactive elements. Explore kid-friendly exhibits that teach kids about coastal ecology, the life of a lighthouse keeper, and the history of the port town. Children can discover what colonial childhood was like at the Hayward Washington House.
7. Beach
Summers in Charleston can be quite hot, so a day at the beach can be very refreshing. Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms and Folly Beach are all a short drive from downtown Charleston. Grab your bathing suit and sandals and enjoy his relaxing day on the coast.
8. Charles Town Landing Park
Located on the site of an English settlement in 1670, Charles Town Landing offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Tour The Adventure, Charleston’s only replica of his 17th-century sailing ship. Visit the Animal Forest, a natural habitat zoo with otters, bears, bison and more.
9. North Charleston Fire Museum
A short drive to North Charleston is the North Charleston Fire Museum. Kids will love this hands-on museum that offers a glimpse into the life of a firefighter. There is also a collection of vintage fire trucks and equipment, and safety demonstrations.
10. Hang out with pirates
Take your kids on a pirate adventure with Pirate Adventure Cruises. Pirates of Charleston offers one of Charleston’s most unique activities, his 1.5 hour pirate cruise. As a child, Black becomes a crew of ghosts, dressed like pirates, singing sea shacks and searching for treasure.
11. Visit the Farm
Taking a plantation tour can be uncomfortable. The McLeod Plantation Historic Site has taken great care to preserve the cultural and historical significance of the South Carolina plantations. Visitors can learn about Charleston’s complex past and the lives of those who helped determine the country’s fate. McLeod Plantation offers interpretive tours that focus on telling stories from the perspective of slavery and the Path to Freedom.
12. Angel Oak Park
One of the oldest trees in the United States is the Angel Oak. Estimated to be 300-400 years old, Angel Oak is part of a large park on St. John’s Island and a great place for families. Pack a family picnic and spend the day exploring the park’s trails, ponds and wildlife.
13. Charleston City Market
Charleston City Market is one of the oldest public markets in the country. When the market opened in 1790, it was the place to buy meat, vegetables and seafood. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination where you can shop for jewelry, art and souvenirs. Charleston City Market is home to one of the nation’s oldest handicrafts, his Basket of Sweetgrass made by Garra Artisans.
14. Riley Waterfront Park
Charleston’s Riley Waterfront Park is a beautiful place to relax while enjoying the harbourfront. Visitors can stroll through the 8-acre park, home to the infamous Pineapple Fountain. Along the pier there are bench swings perfect for enjoying the water views. Children can also cool off in the splashing fountain in the hot summer.
15. Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon
The Old Exchange is a “must see” attraction for families in Charleston. This museum is a local landmark that has influenced the history of an entire country. Children will surely love visiting the old exchange, as pirates were once imprisoned.
